Had a dream that I was back in the classroom. It was one of those "oh, I forgot" dreams: it turned out that I didn't retire from teaching, I had simply forgotten to drive to the job for the past seven years. I headed back over, found my old classroom was still waiting for me, and everything was just as it was in March of 2000, when I taught for the last time.
In reality, I don't think I could ever go back into the classroom. I spent a long time teaching and loved every minute of it, but I've spent seven years away from the bureaucracy and the education-inhibiting factors that aggravate all teachers, and I think my tolerance of such dysfunction would make it impossible for me to play the game. Oh, I'd love the chance to actually educate some interested and willing students, but that's the ideal situation... and for the most part, the educational system is not designed to encourage that ideal. Education is a real Harrison Bergeron sort of system, unfortunately, designed to pull the best and brightest down to the level of the mediocre...
2 comments:
You've definitely added to my education over the years, Cliff. Can't begin to count the number of subjects, authors, and other points of interest you've introduced me to. Steve Allen said that the best way to remain young in mind is to 'resolve to never stop learning'. I don't think you've ever stopped learning or teaching.
I was lucky enough to have experienced your classroom, Mr. Biggers, and I honestly can not imagine that room without you! I know you would find students ready to be inspired, as you inspired me. There is no doubt a shortage of teachers like you, who long after class is over still have an impact on a student's life. After reading your blog, I may have uncovered the source of all my long sentences...and random punctuation!
Jennifer Clements, NCHS Class of 1999
Post a Comment